Set Your Studio Up for Success: Your 2026 Decorator Toolkit
Set Your Workspace Up for Success: Your 2026 Decorator Toolkit
A new year is the perfect moment to reset your Workspace, organise your setup and make sure you have the tools that keep your production running smoothly. Whether you are preparing for the first rush of 2026 or gearing up for Leavers season, having the right equipment and transfers ready to go will save you time and stress in the months ahead.
Here is a simple, practical toolkit to help decorators step into the new year with confidence.
1. Heat Press Essentials That Make Every Job Easier
Your heat press is your most important piece of equipment, so it is worth making sure it is ready for a busy year. If you are already using a Hotronix press, give it a quick clean, check pressure consistency and make sure your platens are in good condition.
If accuracy and speed are priorities this year, accessories like the ProPlace IQ Projectors for the Dual Air Fusion can make a huge difference. It displays your artwork directly onto the platen so you can position transfers without rulers, grids or guesswork. Faster setup, fewer reprints and a cleaner workflow.
2. Transfer Types You Will Need All Year
Having a mix of transfers on hand helps you move quickly when new jobs come in. The most important ones to keep stocked for 2026 are:
UltraColour MAX DTF Transfers:
Ideal for short runs, full colour designs and quick turnarounds. These are perfect for gift orders, small businesses and one off prints where detail matters.
InkTra Screen Printed Transfers:
Your go to when you know you are heading into bulk production. These give a soft finish, last through many washes and peel away cleanly so you can keep pressing with speed.
CAD CUT materials:
Great for last minute names, team kits and personalised items. Having a few core colours ready means you are never caught out.
3. The Platens That Save Time and Reduce Waste
The right platen can make a big difference to your production speed. Keep these ready for the new year:
The Tag Along platen for labels and full front prints at the same time.
The Can Cooler platen for sliders, accessories and smaller items.
Hat platens for winter beanies and caps.
Sleeve and leg platens for sportswear and workwear.
If you are planning to offer more premium items in 2026, these add-ons will make your setup more flexible and reduce the need for reprints.
4. Must Have Tools for a More Organised Studio
Little tools often make the biggest difference.
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A heat proof cover sheet
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Teflon pillows for uneven garments
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A lint roller for clean pre pressing
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Transfer storage folders
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A Lower Heated Platen for no scorching
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A small handheld steamer for removing packaging creases
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A decent lighting setup for product photos
These are simple additions, but they can transform the speed and quality of your work.
5. The Blanks That Customers Want Most
Keep your shelves stocked with the items that sell well all year:
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Hoodies in core colours
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Heavy tee shirts for bold prints
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Tote bags
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Beanies and caps
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Kidswear
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Aprons for small businesses
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Sportswear basics
Having a small selection ready to go means you can take same day or next day orders when demand spikes.
6. Digital Tools to Keep Your Workflow Smooth
If you have not already, set up your IQ Cloud with your common jobs, placements and notes. Saving your settings now means you can get straight into production when your busy periods begin.
Also consider creating ready made templates for Leavers, uniforms or club wear so customers can approve designs quickly.
Starting 2026 With Confidence
A new year is always a fresh opportunity. With the right tools, the right transfers and a studio that feels organised, you can take on more jobs, reduce stress and work with confidence.
Getting ahead now means you have more time to focus on creativity and growth in the months ahead. And with a strong toolkit in place, 2026 can be your most efficient and profitable year yet.